Riverfront regional park plan roundup
FMR has been participating in the master planning processes for Above the Falls, Mississippi Gorge and Hidden Falls Crosby Farm regional parks in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Here's a roundup of the draft plans, FMR's comments on these plans and opportunities for future public participation. >>
Upper Harbor Terminal - Where do we go from here?
Despite public opposition, the Minneapolis City Council approved the concept plan for the Upper Harbor Terminal (UHT) site in North Minneapolis. FMR continues to have many concerns and will stay engaged as planning progresses. >>
FMR opposes Upper Harbor Terminal plan, calls for more community engagement
The Minneapolis Upper Harbor Terminal site is key to improving the North Minneapolis riverfront. Done correctly, the redevelopment of this city-owned site can better connect residents with the river and be a model of sustainability and community wealth-building. So why would the city let private companies take the lead and reap the majority of benefits? >>
Help shape beloved riverfront parks: Mississippi Gorge and Hidden Falls, Crosby Farm
A key theme of the Mississippi Gorge plan update will be to preserve the natural character and tranquil setting along the river's edge. Natural surface trails in the floodplain may get improvements, but they will continue to be for pedestrian traffic only. (Photo by Lyndon Torstenson for MNRRA)
Master plans for three treasured regional parks in the heart of the urban Twin Cities are getting updated this year — the Mississippi Gorge Regional Park in Minneapolis, Hidden Falls Regional Park and Crosby Farm Regional Park in St. Paul. In late January and early February, community members will have an opportunity to see the plans and to weigh in. >>
Mpls. Park Board & Graco near settlement over East Bank Trail
Pictured is the piece of park board-owned land that Graco may be allowed to purchase. This is part of a pending settlement between Graco and the park board over East Bank Trail land. Source: Minneapolis Park Board
The Minneapolis Park Board and Graco Inc. are nearing a settlement on a long-time lawsuit over the East Bank Trail between Graco and the Mississippi River near Hall's Island. >>
River Heights Park saved, restoration begins!
Inver Grove Heights residents, including many FMR River Guardians, helped save this park!
After hearing from dozens of community members (including many FMR River Guardians), the Inver Grove Heights city council unanimously voted to save River Heights Park on Monday, May 14.
The council had been considering carving up and selling the 7.5-acre undeveloped natural area as three 2.5-acre lots for housing developers. Instead, the city, FMR and neighbors are going to work together to make the park more accessible — adding a park sign and bench, with details to be determined — while keeping it a natural area and restoring important bird habitat. >>
Will St. Paul block future park trails?
Pig's Eye is a favorite spot in our local flyway for pelicans. (Photo by Monica Bryand for Great River Passage.)
A railroad expansion proposal threatens planned community trails that would connect Pig’s Eye and Eagle Lakes in St. Paul’s largest park. >>
Renderings of new riverfront concert venue, parks and housing in N Mpls released
A rendering of the proposed Upper Harbor Terminal Community Performing Arts Center
After more than two and a half years of community engagement, draft plans for the redevelopment of a mile-long riverfront site in North Minneapolis were revealed mid-August.
The draft calls for a dramatic overhaul of the Upper Harbor Terminal site, aiming to turn the long-closed port into both a regional attraction and a beneficial part of the North Minneapolis community. >>
West Broadway Open Streets
Friends of the Mississippi River is excited to once again be a part of West Broadway Open Streets in North Minneapolis. Stop by our table!
We'll have information on how local streets connect to the river, ways to be involved in habitat restoration activities at the new riverfront prairie patch at Ole Olson, and, if you'd like, you can sign up to receive emails about opportunities to provide input on local riverfront redevelopment projects.
Upper Harbor Terminal community input meeting
Join FMR staff at one of the upcoming Upper Harbor Terminal community input meetings. Learn about the draft redevelopment plan, ask questions and provide input.
Meetings are:
• Wednesday, August 15, 11 am-1 pm
• Thursday, August 16, 6-8 p.m.
• Tuesday, August 28, 6-8 p.m.
Attend whichever one works for you.